James River State Park's
Outdoor Adventures Canoe Livery
Livery services will not be available until further notice. Please check back for updates.
On the beautiful James River in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, James River State Park now offers complete canoe livery services. Spend a day on the river, or bring your camping gear and enjoy several fun filled days. (Camping reservations are highly recommended - call 1-800-933-PARK.) Note: The livery may be closed when the weather isn't cooperative.
Livery rental hours
- Open Thursday through Sunday, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day; call for specific hours at 434-933-8527.
- Open for special events by appointment for large groups.
Equipment availability is subject to weather and river conditions. Call the livery at 434-933-8527 for information about current conditions.
Rental payment processing will take place at the Visitor Center. After purchasing your rental ticket, you will then travel to your trip's take-out point, where you will meet our livery shuttle. The shuttle will then transport you and your personal items to the starting point of your float. Once you arrive at the landing, the livery attendant will provide you with your vessel, PFD and paddle. You can then begin your river adventure.
Directions to James River State Park.
Stop at the Visitor Center for your camping and rental needs.
Forget something? Not a problem. The Visitor Center sells a wide variety of camping and paddling supplies. Merchandise includes fishing tackle, nightcrawlers, and even river shoes for the whole family. Food, snacks, ice cream, soda, t-shirts, hats, souvenirs and more are available. Those planning to fish must have a valid fishing license, and licenses are not sold here. Licenses can be bought on the spot from DWR using a smartphone.
Fees at a glance (subject to change)
Canoe Landing to Dixon Landing. Two-mile shuttle included.
Canoe - $30; kayak - $25; tube - $12; more than nine tubes - $10 each.
Personal floatation devices and paddles are available for rent.
Affordable shuttle service is available for those who bring their own equipment. Call the livery directly at 434-933-8527 or email jamesriver@dcr.virginia.gov.
Bent Creek to Canoe Landing. Six-mile shuttle included. Canoe, $55; kayak, $40.
Bent Creek to Dixon Landing. Eight-mile shuttle included. Canoe, $65; kayak, $50.
Special considerations
Canoes allow up to three people, only two of whom can be adults. You must be 18 to rent equipment, and children must be at least six years old to take part. Weekends are very busy; please call ahead for reservations or if you have questions. The weather and river conditions are considered by staff regarding rentals. Be sure to check weather reports beforehand.
